HUDDERSFIELD is playing a big part in revitalising the Yorkshire economy, it was said.

Terry Hodgkinson, chairman of development agency Yorkshire Forward, highlighted developments in the town - such as the Textile Centre of Excellence and the Media Centre - as keys to the region's future.

He told the conference: "Yorkshire has to compete with the best in the world, not just the best in Britain or Europe."

Mr Hodgkinson said manufacturing was employing fewer people, but added: "That doesn't mean we can't think about better-quality jobs in the sector."

He praised the innovative work of the textile centre at Red Doles Lane and the growth of the Media Centre in Northumberland Street in fostering business start-ups in technology-related industries.